For those of us who are trying to save the planet one aluminum can at a time, the 18-gallon rectangular recycling bins were never big enough. We'd use paper or clear plastic bags for our overflow recycling, hoping the garbage collectors would realize it was recycling and not ordinary trash.

We noticed many of our neighbors wouldn't put forth the extra effort. Once the recycling bin was full, the rest was thrown into the garbage can. It's no wonder Rockford's recycling rate has been below average.

That should change thanks to new, blue 32-gallon recycling containers that are expected to be delivered to Rockford residents within eight to 10 weeks. It's part of the city's seven-year contract with Rock River Disposal for curbside waste removal.

The bigger the container, the more people recycle. Joliet residents recycled 40 percent more material after switching to 96-gallon toters in 2011. We should see more recycling in Rockford, but with a container a third of the size that Joliet residents use we doubt recycling will increase 40 percent. Any increase is welcome, of course.

About 31 percent of what Rockford residents throw out at the curb is diverted from the landfill through recycling and compost material, according to data from Rock River Environmental Services, the parent company of hauler Rock River Disposal.

Rock River's data show about 10 percent of Rockford's curbside waste goes to the recycling center in Homewood; 21 percent is yard waste sent to the Rock River Valley Compost facility in Cherry Valley. The remaining 69 percent is dumped at the Winnebago Landfill.

The more waste diverted from the landfill, the longer the landfill will last. The landfill is expected to reach its capacity by 2020. An expansion approved in 2012 would extend the landfill's life until 2045.

We hope Rockford residents increase their recycling efforts and fill the new containers. If you're a conscientious recycler and would prefer a bigger container, you can get one.

All residents will be able to purchase an additional 32-gallon recycling container for $17, according to John Lichty, president and CEO of Rock River Environmental Services.

"An important thing to note is that residents in Rockford do receive unlimited collection so it is perfectly appropriate for them to put out more than the can initially provided by Rock River," Lichty said.

Residents also may rent a 65- or 96-gallon cart for $2 a month. Call Rock River Disposal at 815-965-2489 this spring if you want an additional container.

No matter the number or size of the containers, residents should commit to recycling. It's good for the environment, reduces pollution and preserves natural resources.